Delta State-based peace advocate and renowned environmental rights activist, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, has called on the major ethnic groups in the state to set aside differences and embrace peace, unity, and development for the collective good of all Deltans.
Comrade Mulade, a United Nations Peace Ambassador and National Coordinator of the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), made a passionate appeal particularly to the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw ethnic nationalities, whom he described as the economic backbone of Delta State.
According to him, persistent internal conflicts and antagonism towards development projects not only hinder progress but also discourage critical investments that would otherwise provide jobs and improve living standards for the people.
“We cannot continue to fight ourselves, oppose development initiatives, or chase away investors because of selfish interests,” Mulade said.
“I strongly appeal to our revered traditional rulers and political leaders to shun hatred and prioritize peace, unity, and development for the growth of our dear state.”
Highlighting the commitment of both federal and state governments to driving investment into Delta State, Mulade noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori are making concerted efforts to attract investors through key infrastructure and development projects.
“It is important to recognize that both the Federal Government under President Tinubu and the Delta State Government under Governor Oborevwori are working tirelessly to bring development to the state through sustained investments and increased federal presence,” he stated.
He emphasized that rather than engaging in ethnic rivalries, the major ethnic nationalities must come together to harness the state’s vast human and natural resources to support ongoing development efforts.
“Delta State is richly endowed with human capital and natural resources. Instead of fighting among ourselves, let us unite and channel our collective influence to support our leaders so that Deltans can fully enjoy the dividends of democracy,” he concluded.
Comrade Mulade, who holds the traditional title of Ibe-Sarimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to promoting peace and development across the state and called on all stakeholders to join hands in building a prosperous Delta.
